Editorial: Thibaut for At-Large Position 2

In a crowded field of 10 hopefuls vying to replace term-limited At-Large Position 2 Houston City Council member Sue Lovell, voters need go no further than the first name on the ballot. The Chronicle believes former state Rep. Kristi Thibaut has the experience, temperament and idealism to best represent the city's politically and ethnically diverse population.

As a Democrat in the minority in the highly partisan Texas House for one term, Thibaut proved she can bridge ideological divides and find common ground on tough issues. She was voted freshman of the year by her colleagues. We believe she will be the same positive force on the expanded City Council.

As she did with fellow legislators in Austin, Thibaut promises to work closely with both the administration and fellow council members at City Hall to get things accomplished.

"You must have a good relationship with the mayor to make sure the things you want on the agenda get on the agenda," explains Thibaut. "You must also make sure that the relationships you have aren't always confrontational with other council members."

Thibaut says she will focus on job creation, infrastructure improvement and public safety if elected. She hopes to encourage Houston's universities to become centers for generating new technology that spawns commercial enterprises.

With the city facing pension funding problems that can only be resolved at the state Legislature, Thibaut's experience and connections in Austin will be a valuable asset.

She supported the Rebuild Houston drainage initiative and says a dedicated funding source is necessary to deal with flooding and deteriorating thoroughfares.

The Chronicle twice endorsed Thibaut in her state campaigns based on her enthusiasm for public service tempered by practicality and political savvy. We think those qualities will make her an effective addition to City Council.